MTL or DTL – what do these vaping acronyms even mean, and which one suits you the best?
If you’ve done a little research into vaping, you’ve almost definitely come across these two terms. While MTL and DTL might seem confusing at first, they’re actually very simple. In fact, an understanding of these vaping styles is essential for choosing the right devices, coils, and e-liquids and to enjoy the best possible vaping experience.
Don’t worry if mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung vaping (DTL) sound intimidating – we’re here to help explain everything you need to know about the differences between the two. We will also let you know the pros and cons of both vaping styles to help you come to a decision about which is best for you.
So, let’s start with MTL, the more beginner-friendly of the two styles.
What Is MTL Vaping?
MTL vaping is a vaping style where the vapour is inhaled first to the mouth and then to the lungs. This is a similar style that people use for smoking cigarettes.
High-ohm coils over 1.0 ohm are typically used for MTL vaping and are known for producing a stronger flavour. They do not produce as much vapour as DTL vaping so it is not a great option for cloud chasers.
The devices used for MTL are typically smaller than DTL devices. This coupled with lower cloud production makes them a more discreet option, especially for vaping in public places such as parks or streets.
Higher levels of nicotine are typically used in MTL vaping because when less vapour is produced, less nicotine is being absorbed into the bloodstream.
MTL vaping is seen as a good option for those trying to quit smoking. This is because it is suitable for higher nicotine levels and has a similar style to cigarette smoking. Most vapers will start out with MTL vaping before trying DTL.
Advantages and disadvantages of MTL vaping
To help you decide whether MTL vaping is a good option for you, here is a list of the pros and cons.
Pros of MTL Vaping
- Similar to smoking – MTL vapes provide a similar sensation to smoking. This is great for replicating the feeling for people trying to quit.
- More flavourful – Vapers that want to experience the great range of e-liquid flavours will benefit from MTL vaping. This is because the vapour is held in the mouth before being breathed into the lungs, allowing you to enjoy the flavour more.
- Low wattage – The low wattage required by MTL vapes makes it a more economical option, allowing you to vape using smaller, cheaper, and lower-powered devices. You will enjoy longer battery life from this vaping style.
- Tighter draw – A tighter draw can result in a stronger throat hit. It also replicates the action of smoking more accurately.
Cons of MTL Vaping
- Low vapour production – Because some vapers enjoy high cloud production, the lower vapour production of MTL vaping can be less satisfying.
- Restricted airflow – A tighter draw can better replicate the action of smoking. However, in some cases, it can feel less comfortable for the user.
- Limited customisation – Mouth-to-lung vaping devices have fewer customisation options than sub-ohm devices. This can be disappointing for people that want greater control of their vaping experience.
- Limited coil options – MTL devices typically have fewer coil options than sub-ohm alternatives.
How do you use a MTL vape?
To perform MTL vaping, simply take a steady, smooth drag and hold the vapour in your mouth. After you have finished drawing the vapour into your mouth, breathe it into your lungs before exhaling it.
What vape kit is best to use for MTL vaping?
For MTL vaping, you will need a pod kit or vape kit with coils above 1.0 ohm resistance. For example, the Caliburn A3 Pod Kit by Uwell is a great pod kit for beginners. It comes with a 520mAh rechargeable battery that can be charged in just 15 minutes. The easy top-filling function and slim dimensions make it ideal for everyday use. Plus, it is ideal for 50/50 e-liquids and nicotine salts for a great MTL vaping experience.
What vape juice is best for MTL vaping?
Choosing the right e-liquid for your vaping style is important. Lots of incredible flavours are available in 50/50 VG/PG ratios which are ideal for MTL vaping.
Nicotine salts are also a great option for MTL vaping because they are capable of producing a smooth throat hit. They are available in higher nicotine strengths that aren’t suitable for DTL devices.
What Is DTL Vaping?
DTL vaping is when the vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs without being held in the mouth first. It is a vaping style better suited to more experienced vapers that enjoy bigger cloud production and a smooth throat hit.
Lower resistance coils are required for DTL vaping. Sub-ohm vaping devices are typically more high-powered than MTL alternatives, providing more power and heat for greater amounts of vapour.
Advantages and disadvantages of DTL vaping
To help you decide whether DTL vaping is a good option for you, here is a list of the pros and cons.
Pros of DTL Vaping
- Greater vapour production – Cloud chasers will prefer DTL vaping as it is the method that creates the most vapour. This is because sub-ohm devices required for DTL vaping are more powerful and their sub-ohm coils offer lower resistance.
- Smooth throat hit – DTL vaping creates a smooth and satisfying throat hit. This is because it creates higher vapour volumes. This can create a more enjoyable vaping experience for people that don’t want a harsh throat hit.
- Ideal for vape tricks – if you want to try out vape tricks, DTL vaping provides the necessary vapour.
Cons of DTL Vaping
- Requires more powerful devices – Direct-to-lung vaping requires powerful sub-ohm devices. Their higher wattage and low resistance coils can be expensive. They also require more energy to produce the vapour. This can mean that battery life is not as long or efficient.
- Not beginner-friendly – DTL vaping can be tricky to get used to. Because of this, it is best suited to more experienced vapers. Using the wrong technique will affect the vaping experience.
How do you use a DTL vape?
DTL vape kits require a wide airflow. You should take a long, steady drag directly into your lungs as you would when breathing. This can then be exhaled and it should create a large plume of vapour.
What vape kit is best to use for DTL vaping?
We stock a wide range of amazing sub-ohm kits for DTL vaping, but one of our favourites is the Lost Vape Centaurus M200 Kit. The device has great control settings for wattage and temperature and also comes with a colour screen. The 5-200W power range is possible thanks to the dual 18650 Battery. Moreover, the Centaurus Sub Ohm Tank is compatible with UB Max coils and has an adjustable, top-to-bottom airflow system.
What vape juice is best for DTL vaping?
DTL vapers require vape juices with a higher VG ratio than MTL vaping. 70% or 80% ratios create a thick liquid with high vapour production. Check out our high VG vape liquids to find a DTL-ready flavour.
Which Vaping Style Is Best For Me?
Choosing between MTL vs DTL vaping will typically depend on how new you are to vaping and what you are hoping to get from it.
Beginners are better off starting with MTL. Mouth-to-lung vaping provides a stronger throat hit and flavour. Experienced vapers can experiment with DTL vaping for a smoother vaping experience and greater cloud production.
FAQs
Is a mod vape kit better for DTL vaping?
Mod vape kits are typically more powerful than pod kits making them better suited to DTL vaping.
Is a pod vape kit better for MTL Vaping?
Because MTL vaping requires less power, the cheaper pod vape kits can make excellent MTL kits and are convenient and intuitive to use.
What vaping style is best for a high nicotine strength?
MTL vaping is best for vapers that want an e-liquid with a high nicotine strength. For former smokers trying to quit, we recommend choosing an MTL kit.
Conclusion
MTL and DTL vaping are both very different vaping styles that require different vape kits and e-liquids.
MTL vape kits are typically smaller, more discreet options that don’t require a huge amount of power.
DTL vapes are bigger and more powerful. This is because a higher temperature is required to heat the high VG e-liquid that produces large amounts of vapour.
Typically, new vapers prefer MTL vaping because vaping mouth-to-lung is easier. For those looking to create large volumes of vapour, DTL vaping is the best option.
If you have any other queries about DTL or MTL vapes, contact us today for friendly, expert advice.
